Paddy McNair and Duncan Watmore are aiming to begin pre-season training with the rest of the Sunderland squad in July after seeing their campaigns cut short by cruciate injuries.

The duo suffered knee ligament damage in consecutive home games, with McNair sustaining his injury in the 3-0 win against Hull City in November, before Watmore was stretchered off in the 2-1 win over Leicester City a fortnight later at the beginning of December.

Both players needed surgery and are still undergoing rehabilitation work but are on track to begin preparations for next season along with their teammates.

“I’m out running now, so that’s nice to be back out on the pitch,” said McNair.